Venetian Grosso Coin (1193 – 1485)

This coin is a reproduction of a Medieval Italian Grosso minted in Venice between approximately 1193 - 1485. The design of the Grosso remained almost unchanged for almost 300 years making it one of the world’s longest coins in production

The first grosso silver coin first was introduced in Venice by Doge Enrico Dandolo in approximately 1193 and was valued at 26 dinarii. The coin was most likely introduced to pay for the expenses of the Fourth Crusade.

The designs for the grosso came from the Doge’s seal and contemporary Byzantine style coins. The face of the coin shows the Doge and Saint Mark the patron of Venice. Saint Mark holds the gospel and presents the Doge with a Gonfalone banner. The Doge holds the ducal promise which was an oath of allegiance sworn by the Doge. On the reverse, Christ is shown sitting on a throne.

Compared to other coins in the 12^th and 13^th century the Grosso contained a higher silver purity. Which contributed to the coin being widely trusted and accepted for international trade.

These coins are hand-stamped by a passionate reenactor who performs historical coin minting demonstrations. As each coin is hand stamped from pewter and small variations may exist adding to the hand made character of the coins. The coins measure 19.50mm

Buy in bulk for wholesale savings.